If you‘re considering Mercedes-Benz‘s new electric SUV models, you likely want to know how the flagship EQS and the smaller EQB stack up. As Mercedes‘ first dedicated electric vehicles, these two SUVs represent exciting strides in luxury sustainable transportation. Let‘s take a detailed look at how the 2023 EQS and EQB compare.
Mercedes‘ Push Into Electric Vehicles
The EQS and EQB are part of Mercedes-Benz‘s new EQ sub-brand of electric vehicles. Mercedes launched EQ in 2016 to compete with the rise of Tesla and shifting consumer preferences toward EVs. The full-size EQS SUV arrived for 2023 as the brand‘s new technical flagship, showing what Mercedes can achieve with electric luxury. The subcompact EQB debuted last year as an affordable electric option. Both models blend eco-friendly motors with Mercedes‘ renowned driving refinement.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
The EQS cuts a sleeker profile compared to the boxier EQB, but both share Mercedes’ latest EV styling cues like a black panel grille. Here’s how the exterior dimensions measure up:
| EQB | EQS | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 184 in | 197 in |
| Width | 72 in | 77 in |
| Height | 66 in | 70 in |
| Wheelbase | 111 in | 126 in |
The EQS is one of the sleekest SUVs on the market with its gently sloping roofline and tapered rear. Despite close to 15 inches more length and a 5-inch longer wheelbase, the EQS maintains balanced, athletic proportions.
Electric Powertrains and Performance
Under the skin, the EQS and EQB take quite different approaches to electrification. The EQS was engineered on a dedicated EV platform with flat battery packs integrated into the chassis. This lowers the center of gravity for sports car-like handling.
In contrast, the EQB rides on a modified version of Mercedes’ regular compact car architecture. The floor lacks the flat plane of the EQS, though weight distribution is still a balanced 54/46 front/rear.
Let‘s look at some key electric drive specs:
| EQB | EQS | |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Motor(s) | AC asynchronous | Permanent magnet |
| Battery Capacity | 66.5-72.5 kWh | 90-108 kWh |
| Max Output | 288 hp | 516 hp |
| AWD Available | Yes | Yes |
The EQS offers up to 516 hp and 484 lb-ft of torque from its dual motors, allowing it to hit 60 mph in as little as 4.5 seconds. The peak output of the EQB is 288 hp and 384 lb-ft. Motor calibration and gearing help it accelerate briskly up to 100 km/h in around 6.2 seconds based on MB testing.
Battery Range and Charging Comparison
The EQS packs in substantially more battery capacity, enabling over 100 miles of additional range:
| EQB | EQS | |
|---|---|---|
| EPA Range | 243 mi | 350 mi |
| Max Range | 301 mi | 410 mi |
| Charging Speed | Up to 110 kW | Up to 200 kW |
The EQS can add over 180 miles of range in just 15 minutes on a DC fast charger. Mercedes says both EVs can charge from 10-80% in about 30 minutes in ideal conditions. With Level 2 charging, expect full recharges in around 9 hours in the EQB and 11 hours for the EQS.
Interior Space and Cargo Capacity
The EQB is among the roomiest subcompact SUVs. Here is a comparison of the interior space in each model:
| EQB | EQS | |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Vol. | 102 cu ft | 117 cu ft |
| Max Cargo Vol. | 51 cu ft | 63 cu ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.9 in | 41.5 in |
Despite being around 15 inches shorter, the EQB offers impressive rear seat and cargo space. Full use of the 2nd row travel opens up generous leg stretch room. The EQS provides adult-sized room even in the optional 3rd row.
Technology and Connectivity
This is where the EQS truly separates itself in the name of luxury. The stunning Hyperscreen sweeps across the entire dashboard, combining three displays behind a single 56-inch curved glass panel. It‘s a feast for the senses that puts critical info directly in your sight lines.
The EQB also delivers flowing digital displays, ambient lighting and the latest version of Mercedes’ excellent MBUX interface. But the EQS takes things further with high-tech details like:
- Up to 12 ultrasonic sensors and cameras for driver assists
- Facial and fingerprint biometric recognition
- Augmented reality head-up display
- Active ambient lighting that adapts to driving modes
- Rear seat entertainment screens with streaming
- Energizing comfort features like seat massage and fragrance
For the ultimate in connectivity, productivity and entertainment, the remarkable EQS Hyperscreen stands alone.
Driving Impressions and Safety Technology
Both models provide the refined, stable ride quality you expect from the Mercedes brand. The EQS enjoys advantages from its dedicated EV engineering, including a world-first rear-axle steering system. This makes the large SUV far more maneuverable, achieving a turning circle similar to the tiny EQB.
Mercedes also equips both electric models with intelligent driver assistance. Highlights include:
- Active blind spot and lane keeping assist
- Traffic sign assist with speed limit recognition
- Route-based range optimization
- Active braking and evasive steering assists
- Exit warning system
- Driver attention and drowsiness monitoring
Top safety ratings validate the effectiveness of these systems. The EQS earned a full 5 stars from Euro NCAP with an outstanding 95% score for its active accident avoidance tech.
Pricing: Nearly Double for the Flagship EQS
The EQB squares up against compact electric SUVs like the Volvo XC40 Recharge and Audi e-tron Q4, with pricing starting around $55,000. Stepping up to the substantially larger, technology-packed EQS more than doubles the price tag to over $100,000.
Here‘s a high-level look at base MSRPs for the 2023 models:
| EQB | EQS | |
|---|---|---|
| RWD Starting Price | $54,500 | $104,400 |
| AWD Starting Price | $56,550 | $107,000 |
Fully optioned, the EQS can run upwards of $140,000 – over double the maxed-out EQB. But keep in mind, you‘re getting two very different vehicles tailored to different budgets.
Which Electric Mercedes is Right for You?
For affordable electric luxury in a city-friendly package, the 2023 Mercedes EQB delivers style, quality and leading technology. Despite its compact footprint, the EQB provides generous passenger and cargo space along with sprightly performance.
The groundbreaking EQS demonstrates the pinnacle of innovation and craftsmanship from Mercedes-Benz. Supremely luxurious and packed with user-friendly tech, the EQS offers a peek into the future of sustainable luxury transportation. With 100 miles of additional range and all-wheel drive options, it‘s practical as well as indulgent.
So between the EQB and EQS SUVs, you can find an electric Mercedes-Benz perfectly suited to your needs and budget. Both of these EQ models provide an exceptionally refined driving experience with zero tailpipe emissions. Welcome to the new era of electric luxury vehicles.
